NYPD Holds School Supply Giveback Festival

After kids and cops had fun dancing and playing in the streets, over 2000 book bags and school supplies were distributed to Bronx families by the NYPD’s 47 Precinct. The overall theme at the “School Supply Giveback Festival” was simply to give back to the community. That was the vision of Inspector Stephenson. the 47 Precinct commander, who tapped into resources in the community, including clergy, politicians and local businesses. They all agreed that it was important to do something positive for the community.

“We know that it’s a small token, but it goes a long way because some families can’t afford to buy school supplies,” said Inspector Stephenson. “We wanted to make sure that we equipped these kids with the tools they need to get an education to become productive citizens so that they don’t have negative contacts with us.”

One family, a mother, who only gave her first name as Jessica, and four children were very appreciative of the gesture. “Sometimes parents go through stuff,” she said. So it helps economically.”

In addition to providing families with school supplies, Inspector Stephenson wanted the event to show the community that the precinct can be a positive place, not simply where people get locked up. He understands that one event will not solve every problem, but it is one step forward in the right direction.

“It’s not going to be the end all, be all of the past relationships, but it’s one step forward,” said Stephenson. “And that’s what we’re looking to do.”